15 day itinerary for South Korea And Japan

Itinerary

A 15-day adventure through South Korea and Japan sounds like a dream! Let’s dive into an exciting itinerary that balances culture, food, nature, and a bit of shopping.

## Day 1: Arrival in Seoul, South Korea

• Morning: Arrive at Incheon International Airport. Take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX) to Seoul.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Head to Myeongdong for lunch and explore the vibrant shopping streets.
• Evening: Visit N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy dinner at a local Korean BBQ restaurant.

## Day 2: Explore Seoul

• Morning: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony!
• Afternoon: Stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village and then head to Insadong for traditional tea and souvenirs.
• Evening: Explore the lively streets of Hongdae, known for its youthful vibe and street performances.

## Day 3: DMZ Tour

• All ## Day: Take a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Visit key sites like the Third Infiltration Tunnel and the Dora Observatory.
• Evening: Return to Seoul and enjoy a relaxing dinner in the Gangnam area.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nami Island and Petite France

• Morning: Take a train to Gapyeong and then a ferry to Nami Island. Rent a bike and explore the beautiful tree-lined paths.
• Afternoon: Visit Petite France, a charming French-themed village nearby.
• Evening: Return to Seoul and enjoy a quiet dinner.

## Day 5: Travel to Busan

• Morning: Take a KTX train to Busan (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and head to Haeundae Beach. Relax and enjoy the seaside.
• Evening: Visit the Busan Night Market for delicious street food.

## Day 6: Explore Busan

• Morning: Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses and art installations.
• Afternoon: Head to Jagalchi Fish Market for a seafood lunch and then visit the Busan Tower for city views.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset at Gwangalli Beach.

## Day 7: Travel to Jeju Island

• Morning: Fly from Busan to Jeju Island (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Rent a car and explore the scenic coastline. Visit Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak).
• Evening: Try Jeju black pork for dinner.

## Day 8: Jeju Island Adventures

• Morning: Visit Hallasan National Park for a hike (choose a trail based on your fitness level).
• Afternoon: Explore the Manjanggul Lava Tube and then relax at a beach.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at a local restaurant.

## Day 9: Return to Seoul and Fly to Tokyo

• Morning: Fly back to Seoul and then take a flight to Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the Shibuya area, including the famous Shibuya Crossing.
• Evening: Dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub) in Shinjuku.

## Day 10: Explore Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the historic Asakusa district and Senso-ji Temple.
• Afternoon: Head to Akihabara for some shopping and to experience the otaku culture.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Harajuku area and explore the quirky shops.

## Day 11: Day Trip to Nikko

• All ## Day: Take a train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and relax at your hotel.

## Day 12: Travel to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and stroll through the beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore Gion, the geisha district, and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner.

## Day 13: Explore Kyoto

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama to see the bamboo grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Evening: Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) if time permits.

## Day 14: Day Trip to Nara

• All ## Day: Take a short train ride to Nara. Visit Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park, where you can feed the friendly deer.
• Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner and perhaps a stroll along the Philosopher's Path.

## Day 15: Departure from Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 15 minutes by train). Visit Osaka Castle and the surrounding park.
• Afternoon: Explore Dotonbori for last-minute shopping and street food.
• Evening: Head to Kansai International Airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A whirlwind tour of South Korea and Japan that’s packed with culture, history, and delicious food. Make sure to check local travel guidelines and book your accommodations and transportation in advance. Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️